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VICTORIA UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY

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TOURISM POTENTIAL OF YARRA BEND PARK

WITH EMPHASIS ON INTERNATIONAL TOURISM

BY

HELEN TONGMOY BULL

Submitted in part fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of

Master of Business in Tourism Development

m

the Faculty of Business,

Victoria University of Technology (Footscray Campus)

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FTS ARCHIVE 30001000913915

Bull, Helen Tongmoy

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CONTENTS

Background v Aim of the study vi Information sources vii Acknowledgments ix

CHAPTER I INTRODUCTION 1 What is a Park? 1 Yarra Bend Park 3

Historic Value 6 Geomorphological structures 11

Natural bushland setting 12

Fauna 14 The Yarra River Corridor 15

Close proximity 17

CHAPTER n MANAGEMENT of YARRA BEND PARK 18 Yarra Bend Park Management Plan - 1990 18

Planning Objectives 19 Planning Regions 20 Management Strategy 27

CHAPTER m ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES 28 Proximity to urban living 28

Carrying capacity 29 Analysis of Current Usage 31

CHAPTER r v SOCIAL BENEFITS, SOCIAL COSTS, REVENUE

AND FUNDING 39 Social Benefits 39 Social Costs 40 Revenue and Funding 40

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CHAPTER V INTERNATIONAL TOURISM 47

Australia 47 Growth of International Tourism to Austraha 47

Importance of tourism to the Australian

economy 49 Source of International Tourism to Australia 51

The Japanese Market 54 Statistics and Profile of the Japanese Tourist in

Australia 56

Victoria 60 International Visitors to Victoria 60

The Role of Parks in Victoria 62

Melbourne 63 Melbourne Public Parks & Gardens 63

Melbourne and Japanese tourism 65

CHAPTER VI YARRA BEND PARK - TOURISM DEVELOPMENT

68

Developmental Proposals 69

Main proposals 71 Flora Conservatory 71

Nocturnal Koala Enclosure 73 Sanctuary for Avifauna and Small Terrestrial

Fauna 77 Light unstiffened suspension footbridge 79

Restaurants 80 Other developmental proposals 83

Leisure activities 83 Introduction of Kangaroos, Wallabies and

Wombats 88 Park Identity 90 Parking Facilities and Public Amenities 92

Central Visitor Centre 93 A Vision for the Future 95

Closure of the Park to commuter traffic 95

Analysis of Current Traffic 95 Relocation of Fairfield Hospital 96 Upgrading of the Fairlea Prison site 97 Internal Transportation Service 99 Transporter Bridge linking northern and southern

sections 101 Development of Tourism Packages 103

Summary of The Vision 105 Benefit to the Park and to tourism in Melbourne 106

Summary of Costs 108

CONCLUSION 109

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List of Appendices

Appendix I 113 Appendix II 115 Appendix III 117 Appendix IV 120 Appendix V 121 Appendix VI 122 BibUography 123

List of Maps

Map 1: Yarra Bend Park 3 Map 2: Historical Sites 8 Map 3: Geological and Look-out Sites 11

Map 4: Vegetation Communities 12 Map 5: Riverfront Parks around Yarra Bend Park 16

Map 6: Planning Regions 20

Map 7: Westfield 21 Map 8: Fairiea 22 Map 9: Talbot 23 Map 10: River Bend 24 Map 11: Studley Park 25 Map 12: Willsmere 26 Map 13: Lower Yarra 26 Map 14: Park Management's Proposed Improvements 27

Map 15: Traffic Survey Sites 31 Map 16: Developmental Proposal Sites 69

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List of Tables

Table I Income and Employment Multipliers 1984

of the effect of tourism dollars for Austraha 50

Table II International Visitor Arrivals 1986 - 1991 52

Table III Expenditure Data, 1991 53 Table IV The Japanese Market, 1988 & 1991 56

Table V Summary of International Visitors to Victoria 1985 - 1990 60

Table VI Japan vs. Largest Other & Total 61

List of Photographs

Photograph 1 Winding river in heart of Melbourne 4 Photograph 2 Natural bushland and open space 4

Photograph 3 Dight's Fall 12 Photograph 4 Exposed bedding 12 Photograph 5 View to the city 23 Photograph 6 View to the Dandenong Ranges 23

Photograph 7 Boathouse at Studley Park 25 Photograph 8 Quebec Bridge depicted on postage stamp 101

Photograph 9 View along the Transporter bridge, Middlesborough 102 Photograph 10 Side view of the Transporter bridge, Middlesborough 102

List of Figures

Figure A: Flora Conservatory 73 Figure B: Nocturnal Koala House 76 Figure C: Light Unstiffened Suspension Bridge 79

Figure D: Memorial Arch, Great Ocean Road 90 Figure E: Two Steel Girder, Concrete Deck Bridges 101

Figure F: Transporter Bridge 102

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Background

Yarra Bend Park means different things to different users. To the city and urban dwellers that surround it, the Park is a bush haven, a picnic area and a source for both formal and informal recreational activities supported by its lawned areas, its many ovals and two golf courses. To the developer, it represents a piece of potentially extremely valuable real estate, however unattainable. To State and Local Governments, it has been used as a place to locate freeways, hospitals, a prison and other institutes, and to the Yarra Bend Park Trust, a place for recreation, conservation, research, education and appreciation of natural beauty.

This minor thesis attributes to Yarra Bend Park considerable potential for tourism development and concludes that Yarra Bend Park has the capacity to serve as a unique tourist attraction for Victoria.

A review of Yarra Bend Park has already been undertaken by its Trust members in 1990 with provision of a management plan emphasising environmental issues. The review promoted the idea of voluntary funding of the park from surrounding businesses but stopped short of the investigation of tourist potential.

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commenting on current use of the Park, it explores the possibihty of making Yarra Bend Park an attraction for overseas tourists while retaining a local flavour.

Aim of the study

This thesis

examines the natural attractions of parks as a potential for tourism and in particular

the unique features of Yarra Bend Park

explores the existing management proposals of the Park,

examines current usage and capacity of Yarra Bend Park and identifies the effects

developments may have on the environment,

examines the social benefits, social costs, revenue and funding of the Park,

identifies the importance of tourism to Australia, and in particular to Victoria,

explores the significance of Yarra Bend Park as a major tourist attraction for

international tourism and in particular as a destination for Japanese tourists,

proposes major developments that will attract international tourists,

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. proposes participant leisure activities that will enhance the Park,

and,

. proposes revenue generating projects.

Information sources;

A literature review was conducted from books, journals, policy statements and articles that have been written in relation to Yarra Bend Park, surrounding suburbs and surrounding parks. Information on beautification of parks, planting of indigenous trees and shrubs, conservation and environmental issues, historic monuments and associated topics was also researched.

Primary data was obtained through observation at the Park, through the use of an electronic traffic counting program carried out by Mr. W. Cichocki, Engineering Department, Northcote City Council, and from opinions and advice sought from the following sources:

Opinions were sought from Mr. J. Thompson, Chief Executive Officer, Yarra Bend Park Trust, from tourist agencies, building industries, commercial sales outlets. Government bodies and from the public;

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Advice on the costing of the 'hot dip galvanised' entrance arch was provided by Mr. G. Bishop, of Skinner Installations, Victoria.

Secondary data was obtained from the following sources: Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS)

Bureau of Meteorology - Melbourne Bureau of Tourism Research (BTR)

Department of Conservation & Environment - Victoria (DCE) Department of Transport & Communication

Melbourne Water - Victoria

RACV Touring & Travel Services Administration Vic Roads, Geelong, Victoria

Victorian Tourism Commission (VTC) Yarra Bend Park Management Plan

Yarra Valley Metropolitan Park Management Plan

Maps used were from the Department of Crown Lands and Survey and from the Yarra Bend Park Management Plan and brochures.

Prints of Yarra Bend Park were obtained from photographs supplied by Mr. J. Thompson.

The sketch of the memorial arch, Figure D, was supplied by Mr. P. F. B. Alsop, Engineer, Vic Roads, Geelong.

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Acknowledgments

There are many individuals and organisations that have been most helpful in supplying me with information for this thesis, and I wish to thank them for their assistance.

In particular, I wish to thank

my supervisors Dr. R. Waryszak and Mr. T. Bauer for their comments and suggestions,

Mr. P. F. B. Alsop for sketches of the Memorial Arch,

Mr. G. Bishop for costing the 'hot dip galvanised' entrance arch,

Emeritus Professor F.B. Bull for advise and design of the technical structures,

Mr. W. Cichocki for running the electronic traffic counting program,

Mr. J. Thompson for the supply of photographs and information on aspects of the Park, and for valued comments associated with the thesis,

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Dr. L, Turner who patiently read through draft copies of my thesis and offered invaluable advice, and,

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CHAPTER I INTRODUCTION

1.1 What is a Park?

The term 'Park' conjures up different images to different people. To some it represents the intensive active ride-oriented American-style amusement park epitomised by the Disneyland concept, offering wide and varied experiences that range from idyllic fantasy to history or to future environmental planning. The concept is centred around themes which offer 'The Elusive Dream' (Bright, 1987) to the paying public and tourists.

A more recent usage of the term 'Park' refers to real estates which are associated with some higher educational body such as a University. Science parks or technology parks have as their prime aim the establishment of a centre of excellence for the transfer of technology to industry (Currie, 1985).

Historically, the more common usage of the term 'Park' refers to open spaces set aside for relaxation or for some form of healthy recreation.

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Wilderness and National Parks generally retain substantial areas which are, by and large, unspoiled by humans and which have outstanding natural features and landscapes. From the 1960's and 1970's, the development of a National Park followed the lines of environmental awareness. They are generally remote from the urban sprawl, and often difficult to access.

The first park that was estabUshed in Australia as a 'national park' was the Royal National Park near Sydney. Consistent with the emphasis on park development of that age, this park provided accommodation, sporting facihties and picnic areas to the public with a focus on human pleasure and amusement. Today it might equally be classed as a large urban park.

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1.2 Yarra Bend Park

Yarra Bend Park is situated on the river Yarra. The name of the Park is taken from the picturesque bends of the Yarra River as it meanders between the Chandler Highway bridge at Kew and the Walmer Street bridge at Richmond.

Geographically, Yarra Bend Park stretches from Heidelberg Road in the north to the lower Yarra River in Abbotsford in the south, and from Chandler Highway in the east to the meandering of the Yarra River and the banks of Merri Creek in the west (see Map 1 below).

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Photograph 1: Winding river in heart O-F Melbourne.

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Part of Yarra Bend Park is visible to all visitors travelling to and from the city along its northern and eastern corridors. The Eastern Freeway and the Yarra Boulevard run through the Park.

The Park bears witness to the varied geology of Melbourne. Of interest for geological excursions are excellent examples of exposed outcrops and volcanic dykes found at a number of sites. Ridges within the Park offer commanding vantage points from which there are excellent views to the surrounding areas, to the city skyline by day and city lights by night.

Today, Yarra Bend Park contains 223 hectares of land and has been described as a combination of

'natural bushland, open space and winding river in the heart of the capital city of Victoria' (Yarra Bend Park

Management Plan, 1990).

(see Photographs 1 & 2).

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is synonymous with national parks. In contrast, similar Melbourne urban parks dating from that era such as Richmond Park, Cremorne Gardens, the Royal Botanic Gardens and the Domain have been altered to such an extent that none of their original bushland remains.

The Park has other natural attractions. It is the habitat of a number of native animals such as the brushtail and ringtail possums. It retains a large variety of indigenous plants which attract native birds such as the kookaburra and the more colourful parrots and parakeets.

The Yarra River and Merri Creek form corridors for the migration of both animal and bird life and serve as a recreational venue for river activities for the local people. In particular, the Park offers man-made riverside attractions such as walking trails along the river banks, a boathouse with boats and canoes for hire and open spaces along the river for family picnicking and barbecues. For the more active visitor, the Park has a number of ovals, playing fields and golf courses, and the natural setting encourages sightseeing, bird watching, bushwalking and fishing.

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Its uniqueness in being a multi-purpose urban park whilst retaining the natural, unspoiled appearance of a national park gives it the opportunity to offer the best of both these types of parks. However, to retain and attract tourism, and in particular, international tourism, the Park will need to develop 'tourist attracting' features and infrastructure.

The Park's potential as an international tourist destination lies with the diversity and variety of its current assets; and with its potential and scope for future development.

1.2.1 Historic Value

Aborigines

Aborigines were the first occupants of the Yarra Valley. Living a semi-nomadic existence, they were attracted there by the abundant food and water suppUes. Carroll (1973) relates the Aboriginal legend that waters of the Yarra were once locked in an enormous lake hidden away in the mountains. The lake, called Moorool, took up too much of the hunting ground of the Woiwurong tribe, so Mo-yarra, headman of the Woiwurong, cut a channel south through the hills to Westemport Bay to let the water escape. Unfortunately his efforts failed and the waters of Moorool continued to deprive the Woiwurong of much potential hunting ground.

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up the valley but his attempt was stopped by Mount Baw Baw. Bar-wool then turned westwards and found a way through Warrandyte through to Port Phihp. The freeing of the trapped waters of the Woiwurong hunting grounds caused the inundation of Port Philip. The Yarra has since followed this course seawards from Mount Baw Baw. The Aborigines left little trace of their existence and only the trained eye can now discover the occasional canoe tree, camp site or stone implement.

Aboriginal legend aside, the Yarra has historic significance for the people of Melbourne. More than 150 years ago, its banks were the site of the founding of the new colony of Port Philip Bay and much of Victoria's early settlement followed the river's course upstream into virgin bush.

Yarra Bend Park was inhabited by clans of the Wurundjeri Aboriginal tribe (Hall, 1989), and the spur located opposite Fairfield Park has been named Wurundjeri Spur.

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MAP 2: HISTORICAL SITES

1. Dight's Falls and mill stream 2. Bluestone Quarry

3. Deep Rock 4. Boathouse 5. Mental Asylum 6. Fairfield Hospital

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White Settlement

The history of white settlement in Yarra Bend Park and indeed that of the Lower Yarra began in 1803 when explorer Charles Grimes followed the river upstream in an attempt to find suitable land for settlement. Grimes journey ended at Dight's Falls. This event is commemorated by a memorial cairn erected at the top of the Studley Park escarpment.

Yarra Bend Park holds evidence of other early white settlement. These historic features have been retained as a record of the varied uses made of the Park since the 1880's (see Map 2) and include evidence of industry (1,2), leisure (3,4), health (5,6,7,8) and other features (9,10,11,12).

Industry

Historical industrial use of the Park includes bluestone quarrying at Merri Creek and the establishment of a flour mill, built around the 1840's by John Dight, near the junction of Merri Creek and the Yarra. Here the Yarra was dammed to provide water

for the mill. The dam, known as Dight's Falls, is today a popular spot for locals to enjoy a riverside barbecue, to start a walk or ride, or to go for a swim. The mill stream is still in evidence.

With regard to the quarrying, the bluestone steps and a section of brick pavement at Westfield Reserve are beheved to have been constructed before the 1880's from locally quarried stones (Hall, 1989).

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Leisure

In the 1880's, leisure activities at Yarra Bend Park were confined mainly to the Deep Rock area and Studley Park and in particular to the area around the boathouse. In the days before train services, boathouse sites were popular recreational venues for picnics and boating.

The Studley Park boathouse dates back to 1863 and was formerly known as the

'Riversdale' boathouse. It was the oldest of four boathouses built along that section of

the Yarra River. These boathouses reflect past recreational use of the river. Of these, only the Studley Park boathouse and the adjacent Fairfield Park boathouse remain. A third boathouse has been converted into a private residence, while the fourth was demoUshed as a result of constant flooding.

Health

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established plantation of exotic trees.

The Park surrounds the buildings of the Fairfield Hospital, and is adjacent to the Kew Cottages, which is used to house and care for the mentally retarded, and the Royal Talbot Rehabihtation Hospital, east of Trig Point.

Other Constructions

One of the significant features of Yarra Bend Park is the suspension bridge across the Yarra. This bridge was built by the State Govenmient in 1929 and named after Councillor T. J. Kane, a member of the former Studley Park Trust when it merged with Yarra Bend Park. It is one of the six footbridges in the Park. In its first five years, Kane's Bridge had to be rebuilt several times as a result of flood damage, the most serious being that of 1934 when it was washed aside. After this event, the bridge was reconstructed more sturdily. This, together with the clearing of shoals and a steady programme of straightening and deepening of the Yarra have progressively reduced the flood menace. The bridge has remained as of 1934. Kane's Bridge is of historic interest, and acts as the major pedestrian thoroughfare from the southern to the northern section.

Other more recent developments include the picturesque Pipe Bridge which connects Fairfield Park and the Fairlea region to the Talbot planning region. Apart from being an attraction in itself, the bridge overlooks the recently restored historic Fairfield boathouse.

In the early 1930's, the Unemployment Rehef Scheme was the major source of funding

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MAP 3: GEOLOGICAL and LOOK-OUT SITES

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for the construction of the Yarra Boulevard, removal of tonnes of boulders, and the creation of gardens and the general beautification of Yarra Bend Park.

1.2.2 Geomorphological structures

Yarra Bend Park offers landscape quahties which impact strongly on the visitor. The unique geological history of the region together with its river settings combined to produce valleys and escarpments which support a diversity of natural vegetation and offer look-out points that allow panoramic views of the Park and its surroundings (see arrows in Map 3). Examples of these include the road loop at Studley Park (1), the Studley Park Reception Cenfre at Lower Yarra (2) and Trig Point in the Talbot area (3). This visual effect is not found in city parks such as the Royal Botanic Gardens or the Fitzroy Gardens.

Yarra Bend Park contains two distinct geological formations of scientific and historical significance which characterise much of the Melbourne region. The Park lies on the intersection of the basalt plains extension of the world's third largest volcanic plain and the more easily erodible, uplifted, sedimentary Silurian mudstones and sandstones of the Victorian southern lowlands. The volcanic plains extend through much of Western Victoria while the sedimentary Silurian mudstone and sandstones extend from Port Phillip Bay to East Gippsland. Natural land formation, wind and water erosion, and the construction of the Yarra Boulevard have exposed the geological history of this region. The exposed bedding planes of the uplifted Silurian mudstone/sandstone

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sediments are characterised by ripple marks and sediments containing early marine fossils.

The best example of exposed bedding is in the area just below Dight's Falls (see Photographs 3 & 4). Others are found along the Yarra Boulevard and along the steep rocky escarpments on the southern and eastern slopes of the Yarra River at Studley Park.

The geological formations have attracted students from all levels of training from within metropolitan Victoria. These sites have the potential to become a valuable educational resource for special-interest tourism.

1.2.3 Natural bushland setting

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Riparian, or river bank, vegetation is a feature of the Yarra Valley. It consists of the taller River Red Gums and Manna Gums with a shrubby understorey of Silver Wattle, River Botflebrush, River Teatrees, Tree Violet and Swamp Paperbark. The ground layer is dominantly native Tussock Grass and invading exotic species.

Dry Sclerophyll Forest occurs on the Silurian mudstone/siltstone and tertiary clays on the drier slopes of the river. It is dominated by Yellow Gums and Yellow Box with an understorey of Lightwood, wattles and Sweet Bursaria. Native Grasslands generally form the groundcover and consist of Spear Grass, Wallaby Grasses, Weeping Grass and Tussock Grass. Yarra Bend Park is unique in representing one of the few remaining Yellow Gum Woodland communities within the Yarra Valley and the Melbourne region. Best examples found within the Park are on the east side of Studley Park and on Galatea Point.

Red Gum Woodland is characterised by open woodland of Red Gum. Its understorey of grasses is similar to that found in the Sclerophyll Forest, although Kangaroo grass is predominant. In addition it contains several varieties of lily and ground cover such as the Creeping Bossiaea. Lightwood, Black Wattle and Blackwood form the middle storey.

Escarpment Vegetation is dominated by shrubland vegetation. As a result of the steep and rocky escarpments which makes this area inaccessible, shrubland vegetation represents the least disturbed and also the least known vegetation communities of the Park. The harsh site conditions, soil, aspect and slope differences have combined to

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produce communities which are quite varied in their structure. In general, four escarpment vegetation sub-communities are recognised, and, within these, different species are still being discovered.

The current rehabilitation and heavy revegetation program of the middle storey and ground cover is restoring degraded areas of the Park. This programme will create an environment whereby the Park's vegetation could be promoted to tourists with an interest in Victoria's flora. In particular, the Yellow Gum woodland and the remnant basalt plains vegetation, both critically endangered throughout Victoria but present in Yarra Bend Park, could be of particular interest to botanists, ecologists and tourists.

1.2.4 Fauna

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affected, and the Park is home to a rich variety of woodland and water birds.

Revegetation programs within the Park are re-establishing habitats and food chains for the remaining wildlife and are attracting an increasing variety of native birds back to the Park.

1.2.5 The Yarra River Corridor

The development of Yarra Bend Park can be considered in the context of broader plans for parks and open spaces along the whole of the Yarra.

In 1982, legislation was introduced to allow natural reserves concept plans to be prepared for the Yarra and its adjoining land from the city to beyond Warrandyte (Ministry of Planning and Environment, 1988).

'The Metropolitan Open Space Plan August 1988', now promoted as 'Open Space 2000'

supports and advocates continued landscape improvements to the Yarra and adopts many of the features of the concept plans. It addresses the need to ensure good park management together with imaginative planning and careful protection of parklands, and incorporates the aim of providing a range of appropriate recreation and tourism opportunities, and improved access for all sections of the community to the parklands along the Melbourne water-courses.

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MAP 5: RIVERFRONT PARKS AROUND YARRA BEND PARK

1. Hall Reserve 2. Fairfield Park

3. Yarra Valley Metropolitan Park

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In effect, it aims to interconnect and expand recreational parklands and open space which run alongside and branch out from the Yarra River. This proposed integration would form a continuous green link or open space corridor from Port Philip Bay to the inland Ranges thus allowing ease of movement of wildlife from one end of the Metropolitan zone to another. 'Open Space 2000' brings together numerous previous concept plans relating to Melbourne's waterways which had been prepared over the years. A concept plan for the Middle Yarra River from Dight's Falls to Burke Road, and one for the Lower Yarra River span the whole of Yarra Bend Park. The broad objectives of these plans include the provision of trails for the encouragement of cycUsts and pedestrians, a range of river recreational activities, the protection and enhancement of the appearance of the valley, and the protection and conservation of natural resources and sites of historic, educational and scientific significance. Similar objectives have been detailed in the Yarra Bend Park Management Plan (see Chapter II).

Because of its strategic location, Yarra Bend Park plays an important part in the 'Open

Space 2000' plan as it constitutes a link in a chain with other riverfront parks (see

Map 5), such as Hall Reserve (1), and Fairfield Park (2) on its northern and western boundary; the Yarra Valley MetropoHtan Park (3), upstream; and Pridmore Park (4), Burnley Park (5), Fairvdew Park (6) and other metropolitan and city parks, downstream.

As part of the program for the integration of the parkland system, bicycle and walking trails along the Yarra River and Merri Creek extend within and beyond the Park.

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1.2.6 Close proximity

Tourist attractions in urban regions are important because most tourists Uve in cities and feel most comfortable when they seek out cities as holiday destinations (Ashworth,

1989).

The Park is an ideal attraction for visitors on a limited time frame. These visitors include the Japanese tourist, the business traveller, conference attendees, £md those who visit Melbourne for special events such as the Melbourne Cup or theatre such as

'The Phantom of the Opera'. Closeness to the central business district gives it an

advantage over other natural parkland reserves which are sited further away such as Healesville and the Dandenong Ranges.

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CHAPTER n MANAGEMENT of YARRA BEND PARK

2.1 Yarra Bend Park Management Plan - 1990

In Victoria, the responsibility for the management of parklands is largely in the hands of local councils. State Government departments and statutory authorities. Local councils, in particular, administer more than half of the city's open spaces. The administration of Yarra Bend Park is divided between the Cities of Northcote and Kew.

Yarra Bend Park is managed directly by a Trust of twelve persons, comprising two councillors from each of the three adjoining municipal councils of Colhngwood, Kew and Northcote together with six other persons with special experience and expertise appointed by the Victorian Government. The Yarra Bend Park Trust, (1990b),recently released a draft document, the 'Yarra Bend Park Management Plan', which contains a major study of Yarra Bend Park and proposes management plans for each aspect of the Park.

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2,2 Planning Objectives:

The broad planning objectives of the Yarra Bend Park Trust as outhned in the Yarra Bend Park Management Plan, 1990, are:

1. protection of inherent values

- to take the necessary steps to conserve, rehabilitate and enhance the natural vegetation with special emphasis that the landscape values of the Yarra valley be preserved and protected and that any historical, geological, archaeological and aboriginal features within the area be treated with a view to the appreciation of their value.

2. provision for community use

- to provide for and encourage use of the Park so that the community has a better understanding of natural and cultural features and to encourage community participation and scientific research towards conservation and management of flora and fauna.

3. ensure effective management

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None of these objectives are beheved to be threatened by the tourism development proposals of this thesis. Rather, it is beheved that the implementation of the management plans will be enhanced or accelerated by focusing upon the tourism potential of Yarra Bend Park.

2.3 Planning Regions

For planning and programming purposes, the Yarra Bend Park Trust subdivided the Park into seven regions using the Yarra and the road network as practical boundaries. These planning regions are:

1. Westfield 2. Fairlea 3. Talbot 4. River Bend 5. Studley Park 6. Willsmere and 7. Lower Yarra (see Map 6).

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MAP 7: WESTFIELD

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feature spurs and steep escarpments. Both the northern and southern sections have a number of playing fields and ovals and a public golf course. Within the Park there is no vehicular access across the river between north and south. The river banks are, however, joined by the previously mentioned footbridges, Kane's Bridge, Pipe Bridge and four others on the boundaries of the Park.

Westfield

The Westfield planning region consists of Westfield reserve, located on the site of a former quarry, a recent forest plantation, the Merri Creek escarpment and sports ovals and open parklands (see Map 7). Westfield also offers facihties such as car parking, toilets, picnic tables and shelters and is a popular venue for picnickers. It is located in the north western corner of the Park and is bounded by Merri Creek, the Eastern Freeway, Yarra Bend Road and Heidelberg Road. Westfield Reserve is a major entrance to the Park as Yarra Bend Road is the only vehicular access to the section of the Park north of the river. In addition to servicing visitors to the Park and to its golf course, Yarra Bend Road also services Fairfield Hospital and the Fairlea Prison.

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reserve. Along the creek, there is further evidence of past quarrying. These sites are of particular geological interest as they have exposed layers of older Silurian mudstone and siltstone sediments underlying the basalt. Roseneath footbridge, which crosses the creek into HaU Reserve, lies just downstream from these sites.

Revegetation programs along the Merri Creek escarpment and the areas along the river bank are already underway. These will greatly improve the visual impact on visitors as they drive along Yarra Bend Road, and use the pathways.

Fairlea

Further along Yarra Bend Road is an area bounded by the Eastern Freeway, the Yarra River, Fairfield Park and Hospital, and Fairlea Prison (see Map 8). Described as the Fairlea planning region, it consists of a recreational area of playing fields, a sports pavihon, a fly casting pool of international standard, reportedly the largest in the southern hemisphere, and river bushland of remnant riparian Red Gum Woodland and native grassland which forms a picturesque link with the adjacent Fairfield Park. Along the river, extensive revegetation is being undertaken.

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Photograph 5: View to the city.

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MAP 9: TALBOT

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Talbot

Talbot, lies between the Yarra River, Chandler Highway and the Eastern Freeway (see Map 9). The intersection of the Yarra Boulevard with Chandler Highway on the boundary of the Park forms one of the main entrances to the southern section of the Park, It has the Royal Talbot Hospital on its eastern boundary and offers parklands, grassy woodlands. Red and Yellow Gum woodlands, an area of rocky escarpment and a spur. It includes the highest point of the Park which offers the visitor 360 degree views, with the City in one direction and the Dandenong Ranges in the other (see Photographs 5 & 6), Tree planting programs of indigenous trees and grasses, particularly aimed at the middle and lower storey level, are evident at numerous locations with emphasis on the prevention of further soil erosion.

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MAP 10: RIVER BEND

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River Bend

River Bend is bordered by the Eastern Freeway and several kilometres of the meandering Yarra River. Areas of interest include an active recreation area, the Loop Road, the Yarra Bend National Park Golf Course, River View, Deep Rock and the Freeway Environs (see Map 10). Because this area contains an 18 hole golf course, a number of playing fields and picnic areas, it is one of the most popular and best utihsed sections of the Park.

A series of programs currently being undertaken at River Bend include:

installation of sound mounds to block out traffic noise from the freeway,

extensive revegetation, and,

estabhshment of a 'Koori' landscaping and revegetation area.

There is a proposal for the reconstruction of a major wetiand area destroyed during the freeway construction to encourage a greater number of wetland bird species to return to the Park.

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Studley Park

This region is directly across the river from the Yarra Bend National Park Golf Course and is bounded by the river and Studley Park Road. It consists of large areas of steep river escarpment and open woodland. Special features of Studley Park include Dight's Falls, Kane's Bridge, the boathouse and Grassy woodlands (see Map 11 & Photograph 7). The boathouse is of outstanding importance because of the continuity of its use as a pubhc boathouse since its estabhshment in 1863. The principal elements of the complex were constructed between the 1860's and 1930's and comprise the residence and kiosk, the main boatshed and the motor garage. It is one of the currently two remaining boathouses along the Yarra. A large open area upstream from the boathouse represents one of the city's most intact recreational venues, also with contmual use since the late nineteenth century. It remains a particularly popular venue for weekend visitors. Plans are currently on the drawing board to upgrade the boathouse to include a restaurant, bistro and kiosk.

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MAP 12: WILLSMERE

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(54)

MAP 13: LOWER YARRA

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(55)

Willsmere

The Willsmere region is bounded in the main by the winding Yarra River, the Yarra Boulevard, WiUsmere and the Eastern Freeway (see Map 12). This region features River Retreat, an urban subdivision around an old boathouse, 'Bellbird' picnic ground, a hairpin bend in the Boulevard, river escarpment, and woodland areas. Adjacent to the Willsmere region is the Willsmere Hospital complex which was acquired by Jennings Industries in 1990. Proposed developmental plans by Jennings include a hotel and convention centre together with private apartments and houses. As a result of the current 1992 economic climate, these plans have been temporarily shelved.

Lower Yarra

Lower Yarra is bounded by the river, Studley Park Road, Nolan Avenue and Walmer Street. Features of this region include a reception centre, a Par 3 Golf Course, a river escarpment and three reserves, Andrews, Norris and Dickenson (see Map 13). These reserves have been developed as typical urban parks incorporating children's playgrounds, lawned areas and picnic facilities.

The reception centre is sited at a relatively high point of the Park and offers city views across the golf course. Developmental plans for this centre are currently being sought by the Yarra Bend Park Trust. With development, this area could well become one of the main entrances to the Park to its southern section.

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MAP 14: PARK MANAGEMENT'S PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS

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(57)

2.4 Management Strategy

The management plan for Yarra Bend Park prepared in 1990 outlined many specific targets for future improvement (see Map 14). Some of these plans, as identified above, are already being implemented.

Management strategy for the Park has included the involvement of the Park's users. Groups with an interest in the Park are encouraged to conduct their businesses and social activities at the Yarra Bend Centre. One such group of people called 'Diversity' is an environmental group working with ethnic communities that combines ethnic cultural activities with park care programs.

Today the Park retains its popularity as a picnic venue on Sundays and public hohdays. In addition its numerous ovals and playing fields are used by local clubs and ethnic communities for sporting activities such as cricket, football and soccer, and for private functions. Sporting groups are invited to use the pavilions as their club rooms, and become identified with the Park. School groups and research groups are equally catered for.

The philosophical principle underlying the strategy used by management is to get users to identify with the Park, to take pride in it and to have a sense of ownership.

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CHAPTER III ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

A principal concern of management of parks is the impact of recreation and associated

human activities on park environment. In part, the problem is a function of visitor numbers but it is also hnked to the level and sophistication of facilities which are provided. Roads, parking, off-road vehicles, food outlets, toilets, refuse and litter and feral animals are just some of the ramifications of outdoor recreation which can place pressure on ecological quality and park resources.

3.1 Proximity to urban living

Historically the Yarra River has been used as a 'dumping ground' for industrial wastes. As a 'flora and fauna' corridor it is also subjected to abuse with weed infestation and rubbish disposal from neighbourmg suburbs. Severe repercussions for park ecology can be generated by the entry of noxious plant species and externally-derived pollutants, including sewage, chemicals and industrial effluent, (Pigram, 1983), which can affect the ecosystems and food chains especially through the park drainage systems.

(59)

The close proximity to urban dwelling also encourages the misuse of the Park as a dumping ground for 'once loved' domestic pets and plants. Uncontrolled, domestic pets turn feral and can decimate both the native animal and bird hfe of the Park while exotic plants and weeds take over native vegetation.

The Park may be seen by Government and developers as relatively unused Crown land. Compensation for the resumption of this land may be unrelated or incommensurate to the effects of that resumption. This was demonstrated in the 1970's with the construction of the Eastern Freeway, effectively dividing the Park in two and destrojdng wetland areas and Aboriginal sites in the process. The development of wetland areas and the highlighting of Aboriginal involvement at the Park could be a means to restore the balance and right the mistakes made in the past.

3.2 Carrying capacity

Carrying capacity of a tourism facility is.

'commonly considered as the threshold of tourist activity beyond which facilities are saturated (physical capacity), the environment is degraded (environmental capacity), or visitor enjoyment is diminished (perceptual or psychological capacity)' (Pearce, 1989).

Although there have been many studies made on carrying capacity of tourism facilities, few include urban case studies. Carrying capacity studies are confined mainly to resorts connected with coastal tourism and tourism to National Parks. The former

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addresses such studies that range from bacteriological standards and safety of water for bathing, to the vulnerabihty of sand dunes as a result of trampUng of feet to and from the beach whilst the latter range from visitor needs and user impact to the recreational provision in nature reserves.

An in-depth study on the carrying capacity of park usage conducted by Lindsay, (1986), on national parks in the United States and on attitudes of those involved with the Park found that carrying capacity of national parks depends on a number of factors. These factors involved the resources of the park, visitors to the park and park management.

Lindsay formalised his study and expressed carrying capacity as a function of:

the quantity of the park's resources, the tolerance of its resources to use, the number of visitors,

the type of use,

the design and management of visitor facilities, and, the attitude and behaviour of its visitors and managers.

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MAP 15: TRAFFIC SURVEY SITES

1. Studley Park boathouse car park

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Most of the factors involved in Lindsay's formulation, such as the Park's resources are difficult to study. This minor thesis concentrated on analysing the parking facilities and the pattern of visitor numbers to Yarra Bend Park to estimate its physical carrying capacity, and makes commentary on other aspects of the Park's carrying capacity.

3.3 Analysis of Current Usage

The Yarra Bend Park Trust, in its 1989-90 annual report estimated visitor numbers to be between 300,000 and 400,000 a year. This number remains an estimate because there are no records of actual park usage since entry to the Park has always been free.

Preliminary observations confirmed that the Park's popularity persists during the summer months, and especially on Sundays and public holidays. In the main, users came by car. In comparison, the number of cyclists and pedestrians was insignificant. Other users who came by pubhc transport or chartered buses tended to be school or community groups.

(63)

Because the Park has many unmanned entrances and these entrances are also being used by commuters to and from the suburbs and the city, the choice of location used had to ensure that cars surveyed belonged to park visitors. The car park area at the Studley Park boathouse was selected because it is off the main thoroughfare for commuter traffic and would represent an area for genuine park visitors. A note was also made on the weather condition for each day. The survey was conducted from 5th Nov 1991 to 10th Nov 1991 inclusive. These dates included a pubhc hohday (Melbourne Cup Day), week days and a weekend. Follow-up spot checks have been made of the usage of the car park and number of visitors using the nearby facilities.

Over the time period surveyed, the result of the count showed that:

Wet weather appeared to be only a minor deterrent for Park users. And, in particular, once at the Park, wet weather did not appear to have much effect on them.

Cup Day and Sunday were very popular days. On both these days the car park was filled to beyond capacity, and overflowing to the lawned areas just after 1 p.m. Long before that, cars were parking outside the car park area, with consequent understatement of the number of visitors recorded in the car count survey.

The Park, though not as popular on Saturdays and week days, did show an increased number of visits from around noon to 3 p.m.

(64)

The average number of people per car on Cup Day was 2.7, with 2.3 at week . ends and 1.7 during the week.^

In the 27 hours of observation, 2,000 visitors were observed to use the car park. It is estimated that in a normal Summer month, the number of visitors using this car park alone would be in the order of 11,000. Additional visitors would use the facihties, having parked nearby.

The count deliberately did not include cyclists and school groups. Although cyclists use the Park, they tended not to remain at the survey area. School groups were observed only on week days. Because they arrive by bus they were not included in the count.

The above survey was supported by two electronic vehicle counts set up by the Northcote City Council. Both were laid on Yarra Bend Road. One of these, laid immediately south of the Freeway overpass, (see Map 15 (2) & Appendix II), gave data on vehicles using the Loop Road as well as those going to the Yarra Bend National Park Golf Course. The other, laid at the Loop Road at River Bend, (see Map 15 (3) & Appendix III), excluded data on cars parking at the golf course.

(65)

The data from immediately south of the Freeway overpass covered five days, 23 Nov to 27 Nov 1991, inclusive, and included a weekend. Results from this indicated that:

Sunday was the busiest day with number of cars, 1,300 in each direction, for that day doubhng that of the average for a week day.

Saturday was relatively busy, amounting to 75% of the Sunday numbers. This is still greater than the weekday traffic flow.

Peak artival times at weekends appears to be between the times of 11 a.m and 2 p.m., whereas the peak flow on weekdays was between the times of 5 to 7 p.m.

This data gives a rough estimate of 54,750 visitors per month (see Appendix II), and include visitors to the loop road, the golf course and the sporting ovals south of the Freeway,

The data for the Loop Road covered the 54 days of observation over the period 18 Dec 1991 to 9 Feb 1992 and included pubhc and school hohdays. Results from this survey indicate that:

Average number of cars for Sundays and public hohdays more than doubled that for Saturdays and week days.

(66)

Average number of cars for Saturdays is the same as that for week days.

Peak time for weekdays is from about 1 to 2 pm., Sundays and public hohdays an hour later; and Saturdays a further hour later, 3 to 4 pm.

More cars visited the Park towards the end of the survey than at the beginning. This was an unexpected result, as the school holidays had ended. It is suspected that a contributing factor might have been weather conditions.

The surveys were not conducted over the whole year, therefore no comparison is made on park usage between the seasons. One explanation for the apparent different peak times between the two surveys is the usage of the golf course and pubhc ovals.

Using an estimated average of 2.3 visitors per vehicle, it is calculated that around 75,000 ± 4,100 visitors used the Loop Road in the observation period of 54 days, giving an estimated 42,000 ± 3,100 using the Loop Road facihty each month of summer.

(67)

Thus, incorporating the golf course, the loop road and the boathouse car park, it is calculated that some 197,000 ± 15,000 visitors would use one or more of these facilities alone during the 3 months of summer. Consequently, it would not be surprising, that, taking the whole of the park into consideration, adjusting for the remaining nine months of the year, and including estimates for sporting bodies using the ovals, the Yarra Bend Park Trust's upper estimate of 400,000 visitors per year would be well and truly exceeded.

To study the effect of weather conditions on the number of car arrivals, a regression analysis was made on the total number of cars, using as variables the temperature and rainfall data (see Appendix III). The regression result suggest that there would be an additional 80 ± 34 cars to the loop road, per day, per 10°C rise in temperature.

Over the observation period, more than half the days experienced no rainfall. The median rainfall for wet days was 2.4 mm, and on such a day, there would be an estimated 80 ± 20 cars visiting the loop road less than on a dry day.

Overall, the surveys showed that, to avoid peak periods, the best times to use the park for tourism is on Saturdays or during the week provided that day is not a pubhc hohday. The central part of the Park is used to over capacity on Sundays and public holidays. However, because it is not practicable to isolate these days as non-tourist days, the challenge for park usage is to develop the infrastructure to cater for both current usage and tourism on these days. One of the strategies available to the Yarra Bend Park Trust is to 'spread the load' by encouraging local usage in its other areas.

(68)

The degradation of the envhonment is evident at a number of areas of the Park. Not all of these areas are a result of tourism. Some deterioration, such as the embankment above Dight's Falls is a result of weather erosion rather than a result of tourism. Deterioration to areas such as the once grassed area east of the Boathouse can only be attributed to over-use. Even though the Park is used extensively only at certain periods of the year, it would appear that the duration of the slack period is not sufficiently long for the recovery of the grass in that area, hence it can be concluded that this area has exceeded its environmental capacity.

The perceptual capacity of the visitors will also have been exceeded when large numbers of visitors are clustered in the one area. The amount of space each group of visitors would normally seek will not be available. However, the observations made of the visitors on pubhc holidays and weekends near the boathouse, mdicate that there appears to be no perceived perceptual degradation or any diminution of visitors' enjoyment, for, despite the physical evidence, this area remains highly popular with park goers. This observation is supported by a study on perceived crowding in an urban recreational setting which concludes that 'it becomes increasingly clear that not only is there no simple association between social density and recreation satisfaction, but there is also no consistent relationship between site levels and perceived crowding' (Graefe et al 1984 in Westover, T. and Colhns, J. 1985).

(69)

In addition, there are numerous walks and the historic Kanes Bridge provides a hnk to the Northern regions of the Park. The walks aid to disperse visitors and help reduce any perceived crowding.

Carrying capacity is also a judgemental measure, and difference of opmion may exist between administrators and visitors. Although it would appear, from one aspect, that carrying capacity of the boathouse area has not been exceeded, environmentaUy, the degraded grassed area, now being restored, is a telhng tale that capacity has been exceeded, but only locally. Currently environmental degradation appears to be patchy and is mainly confined to the area adjoining the c£ir park area. Other areas such as the Westfield Reserve, Dickinson Reserve and Bellbird Reserve have not suffered the same fate, as the area adjacent to the boathouse. There are other areas of the Park which are neither widely known nor used, and the challenge for Park Management is to divert users to these other areas. One way is to create an 'attraction' at these areas to 'draw the crowd' to them thus levelhng out usage of the Park,

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CHAPTER IV SOCIAL BENEFITS, SOCIAL COSTS, REVENUE AND FUNDING

4.1 Social Benefits

For international visitors to Victoria, Melbourne City centre represents the hotel base. The close proximity of Yarra Bend Park to this centre means that the Park is a valuable aesthetic and recreational resource for tourism to Victoria.

Development of the park for tourism is not in conflict with the recreational use of the park for local residents. Indeed, development for tourism will have spin-offs for the people of Melbourne and represent an advantage for tour developers.

Benefits wiU come in a variety of forms. Park enhancement and better facihties such as an up-market restaurant, cleaner and more modem toilet facilities, better maintained grassed barbecue areas, upgraded walking trails with the identification of flora and fauna of the region and the establishment of attractions to draw in tourism, wiU add to the enjoyment of the park for locals. A renovated boathouse could be an attraction for special functions such as weddings, anniversaries and other celebrations, or reserved for more intimate occasions.

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4.2 Social Costs

On the other hand, tourists and locals will be competing for the same resources. Facilities traditionally used by locals will have to be shared with tourists. This potential decrease in opportunity for local usage will need to be monitored. Unconstrained usage could result in deterioration of facihties and the park itself to the detrimental enjoyment of aU users. All these factors need to be considered in a developmental proposal.

4.3 Revenue and Funding

Yarra Bend Park has the potential to be put on the tourist map because it has the capacity to be developed for tourism activities plus retain the popularity it currently enjoys among the residents of Melbourne. A managed build-up of tourism is unlikely to detract from its unspoilt appearance. It would not require any loss of ovals, playing fields, golf courses or other recreational facilities. Tourism development will in fact add entertainment value to the park and provide additional resources for self-funding.

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4.3.1 Current sources of fimds:

Internal Sources

The Park's main source of funds (78%) origmate from self funding projects, with 64% from its two golf courses. Others sources are from rent from the boathouse and the Studley Park Reception, (7%), hiring out of its grounds, (3%), and interest and miscellaneous sources accounting for the remaining 4% (Yarra Bend Park Trust,

1991).

Government

The remaining sources of funds are derived from the Victorian Government (15%) and adjoining local councils (7%). State Government grants are project based such as those of tree planting, the development of walking trails and other environmental related projects, while local councils provide help to the Park for the maintenance of its many ovals and playing fields used by its residents.

Voluntary Contributions

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would otherwise have to find.

4.3.2 Future sources of funds:

Government

The current economic downturn of the early 1990's has resulted in Govenmients changing budget requirements to require authorities such as Park management to produce plans for self-sustained projects. An example of such Government action is the recent funding cut experienced by the Royal Botanic Gardens. Yarra Bend Park could find itself facing a similar financial situation at some future date. It therefore needs to explore and establish self-funding projects.

One of the strategies for making parks self sufficient involves expanding their role into tourist areas as a means of generating funds.

'Tourism in its best form can be an important means to encourage and help pay for environmental conservation because features of the natural environment are often the reason for tourists to visit an area; and these features must be conserved in order to develop and maintain tourism.'

(Inskeep, 1987).

However, the Government could and should remain an important contributor to capital projects proposed to encourage tourism. This will enable parks, such as Yarra Bend Park, the means to become self-sufficient in the future.

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Sponsorship

Sponsorship is a business deal between the parties for their mutual benefit. Sponsorship to the Park could be m the form of funds or equipment, or the assistance of manpower and specialist knowledge, and may be identified for specific project development, events or programs, or aUocated for general promotion. In return the sponsor would expect the organisation's name to be advertised, possibly in the form of naming rights. Basically, an organisation will enter mto sponsorship where the associated advertisement, will enhance its unage, profile and reputation with the pubhc, and create a greater awareness of its product. Companies have different images they may wish to portray. Such images include being in tune with nature, the creation of security and stability, or more generally, an image of success. Sponsorships not only create public confidence towards companies but can also be a means for boosting employee morale.

Sponsorship programs are widely used by the Department of Conservation and Environment (DCE) as a means of attracting funds for its various projects. This is reflected in a recently produced 'Sponsorship Policy' DCE has provided as a working framework for its staff.

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Western Austraha. To revegetate the Park, WMC offered a sponsorship of $800,000 to be spent over a five year period. AdditionaUy it also offered its vast environmental and technical expertise from its Alcoa branch (WMC, 1990).

A number of industries and institutes such as Hewlett Packard, Country Road, and a branch of Latrobe University, he on the perimeter of Yarra Bend Park, These organisations could be invited to identify with the Park and show their commitment to improving the environment and the development of self fundmg projects through sponsorship programs. The immediate benefit to these organisations would be the beautification of their neighbouring envhonment and the linking of the organisations' name with the Park, thus providing them a form of cheap advertisement. Other subtle spin-offs would include the provision of a backyard park for the enjoyment of the employees during their tea and lunch breaks. Upgrading of Yarra Bend Park would encourage a greater number of visitors. This, in turn, could act as a stimulus to new businesses, in particular, those associated with hospitality, such as food outlets and different types of tourism accommodation, along its boundaries.

Patronage and philanthropy

Unhke sponsorship, both patronage and philanthropy are financial or material assistance given without expectation of any direct or indirect return. Organisations, clubs or individuals may choose to act as a patron of the Park with the donation of a yearly sum of money.

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Membership

Sovereign Hill runs a highly successful Park membership program mcorporating individual, family or corporate membership. This brings in sums of money to the value of $30, $52 or $250 per annum, respectively, to itself. In return, it offers free admission and other discounts to its members. (Ballarat Historical Park Association, 1991).

Yarra Bend Park could look into offering a similar graded membership program with free or discounted meal and with a free golf package or admission to 'user pay' developments. This system could represent an invaluable source of funding and cost management as the bulk of the money is received at a fixed time each year, and there is potential for growth through increases in membership numbers.

Financial Ventures

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Capital raising by the sale of assets would be unpopular at a time when, in the spirit of 'Open Space 2000', the Park should be looking at acquisition. However, the other funding sources, in particular. Government grants or funding through private enterprise, are possibilities and should be looked at.

Friends of the Park

Once the Park has estabUshed itself as a tourist destination, friends of the Park, such as 'The Men of the Trees' and the 'Tree Project Group', could play a more visible role by becoming interpretive volunteer guides or participatmg in the various projects associated with the Park. This would provide a level of community involvement that offers the pubhc the chance to learn more about the natural environment, the history, and the changing nature of their Park, and would provide an additional source of revenue. Such programs have proved highly successful in other tourism related projects such as 'Puffing Billy' and the 'Scienceworks' museum.

Miscellaneous Funds

Additional sources of funds could arise from catering to tourism in conjunction with tourism development of the park. These could include special photographs taken with a koala or with a friendly kangaroo or while feeding the birds, and the sale of animal feed, books, posters, souvenirs and other tourism items.

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CHAPTER V INTERNATIONAL TOURISM

There is a behef that international tourism can, in certain circumstances, foster positive social and cultural links between nations. Such links formed by personal experiences of people and places, can support the broader less personal trade and pohtical Imks between the nations (Leiper, 1985). Tourism development of Yarra Bend Park will not only be a benefit to the Park, but also add value to Melbourne and Victoria as a whole.

5.1 Australia

5,1,1 Growth of International Tourism to Australia

In the post World War II period of the last 40 to 50 years, tourism worldwide has seen massive increases. This is due to various factors, the main ones being:

technological advances in communication which made nations more aware of each other, thus generating a desire in people to travel and see new places for themselves,

(79)

. the economic growth of nations exemphfied by countries such as America, Germany and Japan, where increases in discretionary income made it possible for people to travel widely, and,

an increase in paid holidays plus increased leisure time.

Data from ABS (Cat, No. 3401,0) shows that up until 1988, there has been a steady increase in the number of international tourists to Australia,

The substantial increases in tourist numbers m 1987 and 1988 were attributed to a number of factors, amongst which were the special events in Austraha such as the America's Cup return match (1986 and early 1987), Worid Expo '88 and the Bicentenary Celebrations (1988), Other factors included the hfting of Austraha's profile overseas as a result of the success of popular Austrahan music and films, and continuation of advertisements conducted overseas by the Austrahan Tourist Commission (ATC),

The dechne in 1989 and slow recovery since then, can be attributed in part to the recent lack of special events and the discontinuation of advertisements, in part to the cripphng pilot's strike in the latter half of 1989 and early 1990, m part to the global unrest as a result of the Gulf war in early 1991 and more generally, to the continuing downturn in world economy which affected not only the number of visitors to Australia, but also directly or indirectly brought about the collapse of several of

Figure

Table compiled from raw data in ABS Cat. No. 3401.0
TABLE VI Japan vs. Largest Other & Total
FIGURE B: NOCTURNAL KOALA HOUSE
FIGURE C: LIGHT UNSTIFFENED SUSPENSION BRIDGE
+4

References

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